A Day in San Diego

With beautiful weather, top-notch attractions, amazing landmarks, and some of the friendliest people in the country, San Diego is an excellent place to visit. Discover some of the city’s most famous landmarks and places to stay nearby.

USS Midway Museum.

Morning: Get Your History Fix at the USS Midway Museum

Moored at the Navy Pier off San Diego Bay near downtown, the USS Midway Museum is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. With 60 exhibits and 29 restored airplanes, you could spend all day walking through this retired aircraft carrier, but the real gem is listening to the people who actually called the carrier home.

If you have time to spare, head to the top of the aircraft command tower. There, several naval air traffic controllers will tell you stories of what life was like on the high seas, how they managed air traffic, and funny anecdotes along the way. Plus, the view of downtown San Diego is arguably the city’s best. Admission is $23.

Stay downtown when you want to explore the USS Midway. Opt for a high-end option such as the Westin San Diego or a budget room at the Motel 6 San Diego Downtown.

Afternoon: Explore Balboa Park

Built in 1868, Balboa Park is an urban cultural center that covers more than 1,200 acres just north of downtown. It features architectural marvels, natural beauty, museums, and the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The El Prado — a long, pedestrian-only promenade — is the perfect way to traverse the park, taking you by landmarks such as the California Bell Tower and the Casa de Balboa.

Other park highlights include 17 museums exhibiting everything from history to aviation, a Japanese friendship garden, a velodrome, and a challenging disc golf course. Hotels near Balboa Park are plentiful. You can elect to stay at a place downtown such as the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel San Diego or one of the boutique hotels near the park such as the Inn at the Park or the Balboa Park Inn.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve.

Evening: Enjoy Torrey Pines

If you’ve ever wondered what San Diego looked like 250 years ago, head to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. The landscape features rock formations, the Torrey Pine, and other interesting flora, fauna, and topography. With 8 miles of hiking trails, you always have somewhere to explore.

When you visit Torrey Pines, stay right along the edge of the reserve at an upscale hotel such as the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines or the Lodge at Torrey Pines.

Ready to see the best landmarks in San Diego? Book everything from transportation and accommodation to tours and sightseeing here on GoDoTrip.

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